Item 79

Authorize to accept and expend $2,000,000 for Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Planning Grant Funds for the purpose of hiring a contractor to write the state’s five-year Broadband Plan as outlined in the BEAD Notice of Funding Opportunity. Effective upon G&C approval through June 30, 2023. 100% Federal Funds. Contingent upon Fiscal Committee approval on April 21, 2023.